NUGS Petitions Rent Control Over Rising Hostel Fees in Tertiary Institutions

The National Union of Ghana Students has called on the Rent Control Department under the Ministry of Works and Housing to urgently intervene in what it describes as exploitative and unregulated hostel pricing within tertiary institutions across Ghana.

In a petition dated April 23, 2026, NUGS raised concern over persistent and unjustified increases in hostel accommodation fees by private operators around university campuses, warning that the situation is worsening each academic year.

The union stated that many students are being forced to pay large sums of rent in advance, sometimes beyond the limits allowed under the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220), while others are subjected to unilateral rent increases without proper notice or formal tenancy agreements.

According to NUGS, these practices are creating serious financial pressure on students and their families, and in some cases leading to the displacement of students who are unable to meet the rising costs of accommodation.

The student body further noted that the lack of strict enforcement of rent regulations has allowed some hostel operators to take advantage of students, undermining access to affordable housing within tertiary institutions.

Among its key demands, NUGS is calling for immediate investigations into hostel pricing structures, strict enforcement of rent laws, sanctions for defaulters, and the introduction of clear guidelines specifically regulating student accommodation.

It also urged the creation of effective and accessible complaint mechanisms to protect students from victimisation when reporting rental abuses.

The union expressed hope that urgent government action will restore fairness, protect student tenants, and ensure affordable accommodation for all tertiary students in Ghana.